Yves Top Luxury Members Clubs in London
Yves de Contades tries out the top London member's clubs so you don't have too!
Home House
As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of all things luxurious (and let’s be honest, someone who enjoys pretending to live the plot of a sybaritic novel), I’ve made it my mission to meander through the opulent landscape of London’s members’ clubs. These exclusive havens provide not only a comforting refuge from the chaos of city life but also the perfect stage for roguish antics, self-indulgent conversations, and the occasional over-the-top Instagram post. Here’s my not-so-serious take on the top luxury members’ clubs in London, complete with their stunning extravagance, unique characteristics, and the obligatory dose of British humour.
Soho House
Membership Fee: From £1,600 annually (plus a £550 joining fee)
Ah, Soho House—the ultimate destination for sipping craft cocktails while crafting an air of indie-film chic. Since its founding in 1995, this members-only haven has grown into a global lifestyle empire, with multiple London locations like the original Soho House and the effortlessly hip Shoreditch House. Picture rooftop pools perfect for sun-soaked lounging, chic cinemas screening films you pretend to have “seen at Cannes,” and inky sofas where creatives pitch their next big idea—usually after a martini or two.
The vibe? Effortlessly cool yet ever-so-slightly chaotic, as a diverse crowd of artists, actors, and media mavens create an ambience that’s equal parts inspiring and intimidating. For the globe-trotters among us, £3,450 grants access to all Soho Houses worldwide—a perfect excuse to pack your silk pyjamas and jet off to LA, Berlin, or New York. And while you’re here, don’t sweat the existential crisis about whether you're cooler than the enigmatic posh type at the next table. (Spoiler: you are, but only after that second Negroni.)
Visit Soho House
The Groucho Club
Membership Fee: £1,500 annually (plus a £550 joining fee)
Tucked in the heart of Soho, The Groucho Club is a bohemian paradise for anyone with a creative soul and a penchant for the unconventional. Established in the 1980s as a rebellious response to stuffy gentlemen’s clubs, this legendary venue champions art, wit, and a touch of irreverence. It’s a place where the beer flows, the conversations sparkle, and the clientele feels like a curated exhibit of eclectic charm.
From poetry readings to avant-garde art shows, every event feels like a social adventure, while the buzzing bar invites a mix of industry insiders, writers, and slightly dishevelled geniuses. Grab a pint of craft ale, nibble on their famed bar snacks, and prepare to overhear debates ranging from “Is popcorn an art form?” to “How ironic is too ironic?” The Groucho Club isn’t just a membership—it’s a way of life for those who prefer their sophistication with a splash of mischief.
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The Ivy Club
Membership Fee: £1,300 annually (plus a £500 joining fee)
Adjacent to the iconic Ivy restaurant, The Ivy Club exudes timeless glamour that makes every visit feel like an event—though I often catch myself wondering if my outfit measures up to the chic crowd. Its warm, art-adorned interiors and the tantalising aroma of freshly prepared dishes create a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. This is the perfect spot to debate the merits of Downton Abbey while indulging in a British classic roast. Members enjoy priority reservations at the famed restaurant, ensuring effortless access to culinary delights worthy of Instagram envy. The clientele is effortlessly stylish, a lively mix of theatre buffs and socialites sharing tales of their latest escapades. Meanwhile, I grapple with life’s great dilemmas: lobster thermidor or the vegan masterpiece? Decisions, decisions.
Visit The Ivy Club
Annabel’s
Membership Fee: £3,750 annually (plus a £1,850 joining fee)
Annabel’s is the epitome of Mayfair opulence, where every detail—from the plush fabrics to the dazzling chandeliers—screams luxury. Since its founding in the swinging 1960s, this iconic club has been synonymous with extravagance, hosting glittering soirées and fashion events that attract the crème de la crème of London society. The air is tinged with the scent of designer perfume and vintage champagne, making it a paradise for those who thrive on exclusivity. The crowd is a delightful mix of socialites and eccentric personalities, and you might just find yourself in conversation with someone whose pet has a personal stylist. Just remember, ordering tap water might earn you a side-eye from those sipping Dom Pérignon. For global jet-setters, £3,450 gets you access to all Soho Houses worldwide—a perfect complement to Annabel’s timeless allure.
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The Royal Automobile Club
Membership Fee: From £1,600 annually (plus a £3,680 joining fee)
For car enthusiasts like me, The Royal Automobile Club is a dream come true, combining motoring heritage with quintessential British charm. Founded in 1897, this grand establishment offers a feast for the eyes with its stunning architecture and impressive automobile collection. Whether enjoying a casual bacon sarnie or a fine-dining experience paired with exquisite wines, the club caters to all tastes. The library is a petrolhead’s paradise, perfect for browsing motoring literature while fantasising about cruising the countryside in a vintage Aston Martin. Membership here is more than an entry to an exclusive club—it’s an initiation into a world where parallel parking techniques spark spirited debates. Who knew parking could be so enthralling?
Visit The Royal Automobile Club
The Arts Club
Membership Fee: £3,200 annually (plus a £1,600 assessment fee)
Stepping into The Arts Club feels like wandering through a living masterpiece—except this gallery comes with exceptional wines and dining to match. Established in 1863, the club attracts a dynamic mix of artists, musicians, and literary luminaries, creating an inspiring and eclectic atmosphere. It’s the ideal setting for deep conversations about the arts—though admittedly, you may find yourself distracted by the latest celebrity gossip from the tabloids. The dining room is a standout, perfect for hosting clients or savouring indulgent desserts while nodding thoughtfully at discussions about abstract expressionism. Spoiler alert: the pudding is always worth it. After all, no one does dessert quite like the British.
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5 Hertford Street
Membership Fee: £1,800 annually
Nestled in the heart of Mayfair, 5 Hertford Street is the epitome of exclusivity, reserved for those with impeccable taste and connections. This invitation-only club exudes a rarefied charm, offering a sanctuary of understated luxury. Its sumptuous interiors, exquisite dining options, and meticulously curated events cater to a select crowd of London’s elite. With impeccable service and an air of effortless sophistication, 5 Hertford Street is more than a club—it’s a passport to a world of refined discretion and unparalleled elegance.
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Home House
Membership Fee: From £1,450 annually (plus a £339 joining fee)
Home House seamlessly blends Georgian opulence with contemporary flair, creating an inviting space where relaxation meets revelry. The beautifully designed interiors are as captivating as the club’s eclectic calendar of events, which ranges from art exhibitions to lively themed parties. On any given visit, you might find yourself lounging in a plush parlour, channelling your inner Jane Austen character while debating life’s big questions (or simply deciding between cocktails). With extravagant drinks like a truffle-infused dragonfruit mojito on the menu, it’s the perfect place to mingle, sip, and occasionally flaunt your best aristocratic accent. Cheers, darling!
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The Conduit
Membership Fee: £2,100 annually (plus a £475 joining fee)
The Conduit is where social conscience and luxury seamlessly intertwine, creating an oasis for changemakers and visionaries alike. Tailored for those who enjoy artisanal cocktails while discussing the finer points of global transformation—or simply critiquing the speed of the bar service—it offers a refreshing take on the traditional members' club. Its sleek, contemporary design is complemented by a dynamic community dedicated to meaningful impact, making even the dreariest Monday feel like a lively soirée. Whether practising your most convincing “philanthropic genius” pose or engaging in spirited debates on sustainability, The Conduit provides the perfect backdrop for networking, inspiration, and the occasional Instagram-worthy moment.
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The Reform Club
Membership Fee: £1,700 annually (plus a £1,500 joining fee)
Steeped in history and elegance, The Reform Club has been a beacon of progressive thought and refined dining since its founding in 1836. Inspired by the Great Reform Act of 1832, this iconic club was established to champion forward-thinking ideals, all within the grandeur of a Victorian architectural masterpiece designed by Charles Barry. Its opulent interiors, complete with smugly stylish bricks, have hosted some of history’s most influential figures, including William Ewart Gladstone and Winston Churchill. Renowned as a gathering place for political and intellectual discourse, it’s where great minds and great port converge to shape the course of history—over a perfectly set dinner table, naturally.
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The Travellers Club
Membership Fee: £1,700 annually (plus a £1,500 joining fee)
An illustrious haven for the well-heeled jet-setter, The Travellers Club has been a cornerstone of refined sophistication since its founding in 1819. Located on the distinguished Pall Mall, this exclusive retreat offers members a serene escape from London’s bustling energy, steeped in old-world charm and tradition. While the specifics of its membership cost remain somewhat elusive, it’s widely known that entry requires a considerable financial commitment, often exceeding £1,000 per year. For those in search of an elegant enclave where history and exclusivity converge, The Travellers Club promises an investment well worth making.
Visit the Travellers Club
The Sloane Club
Membership Fee: £1,700 annually (plus a £750 joining fee)
The Sloane Club, a refined retreat for Chelsea’s discerning elite, marries old-world elegance with modern flair. Established in 1922 as a women-only club, it has since evolved into a vibrant hub for London’s social set. With its luxurious interiors and an atmosphere radiating effortless sophistication, the club has become synonymous with Sloane Ranger chic. Though exact membership costs are discreetly guarded, a significant financial commitment is expected. For those craving a touch of exclusivity and a chance to mingle with London’s high society, The Sloane Club is the perfect choice.
Visit The Sloane Club
Boodles
Membership Fee: From £1,700 annually (plus a £1,500 joining fee)
Slap bang in the heart of St. James’s, Boodles is a venerable institution embodying discreet luxury. Established centuries ago, this private members' club is a sanctuary for London’s most influential figures. Boodles exudes an air of timeless sophistication, offering an exclusive setting for forging connections with the crème de la crème of society. While the membership cost is undeniably steep, it’s a small price to pay for the privilege of enjoying its serene atmosphere and rubbing shoulders with the city’s elite.
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Maison Estelle
Membership Fee: From £3,750 annually (plus a £1,800 joining fee)
A newcomer to London’s private club scene, Maison Estelle has swiftly garnered a reputation as the epitome of modern luxury. Situated in a magnificent Georgian townhouse in Mayfair, this club offers an effortlessly chic ambience, blending contemporary art, sumptuous furnishings, and a stellar cocktail menu. Its exclusivity and social cachet are reflected in its significant membership fees. Maison Estelle promises an unparalleled experience, from world-class dining to an electrifying social calendar, making it an irresistible haven for the city’s most fashionable and discerning clientele.
Visit Maison Estelle
From lavish interiors to vibrant gatherings, these clubs epitomise London’s high society. So grab your outrageous hat, raise a glass of champagne, and revel in the absurd delight of it all. Cheers!